Delays in case against alleged diamond scheme kingpin Louis Liebenberg as his lawyer withdraws

JOHANNESBURG - There have been some delays in the case against alleged diamond scheme kingpin, Louis Liebenberg, in the Bronkhortspruit Magistrates Court during his appearance on Tuesday, after his attorney withdrew from the case.

Liebenberg and his eight co-accused returned to court facing fraud, racketeering and money laundering charges.

READ: Controversial diamond dealer Louis Liebenberg abandons bail

The Zuma associate is accused of running a botched diamond investment scheme, where he allegedly siphoned four billion rand from investors.

When Liebenberg made his first few court appearances last year, members of the MK Party would also fill the court benches in support of him.

Liebenberg has strong ties with the party and its leader, Jacob Zuma, with reports of him even covering some of the former president’s legal fees.

But on Tuesday, Liebenberg walked into the dock, running his eyes through the small courtroom, and not a single MK Party member in uniform could be seen.

His problems have mounted as his lawyer, Jaco du Plessis, told the court that he would be withdrawing from the matter.

"My instruction is to withdraw at this stage, as attorney. All the dates suit accused number 1 and myself."

While Du Plessis did not inform the court of a reason for his withdrawal, he has not ruled out the prospect of him returning to the matter, saying he may do so once he received proper instructions, which may be financial from Liebenberg.